The best cycling routes in Queensland

Queensland offers a vast network of touring cycling routes, with over 900 routes available on komoot. This includes a wide range of options, from easy urban rides to challenging long-distance adventures, catering to various skill levels and preferences.

Queensland's warm climate makes it suitable for year-round cycling. The southern regions are particularly pleasant during spring and autumn, while the tropical areas are best explored during the dry season, which typically runs from May to October. This avoids the hotter, more humid summer months and the wet season in the north.

Queensland's diverse geography offers a variety of terrains. You can find mostly flat, sealed paths along coastal areas, rolling hills and steep climbs in the hinterland, and rugged outback trails. Surfaces range from smooth tarmac to gravel and dirt, with some remote outback sections requiring sturdy gravel or mountain bikes. You can cycle through lush rainforests, volcanic plateaus, and along extensive coastal paths.

Yes, Queensland offers many family-friendly options. For example, the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge – Goodwill Bridge loop from Bowen Hills is an easy route that connects key Brisbane landmarks along the river, suitable for a relaxed family outing. Coastal paths like the Gold Coast Oceanway also provide easy, flat riding with access to amenities.

Many touring cycling routes in Queensland are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Goodwill Bridge – Kangaroo Point Green Bridge loop from Buranda in Brisbane, or the The Bicycle Pedlar loop from Garbutt, which offers coastal and urban paths.

The routes in Queensland cater to all abilities. There are over 350 easy routes, ideal for beginners or leisurely rides, and over 370 moderate routes for those seeking a bit more challenge. For experienced cyclists, there are also nearly 200 difficult routes, often found in the hinterland or outback, featuring more significant climbs and varied terrain.

Absolutely. Queensland is rich in natural beauty. Many routes offer access to stunning viewpoints and natural monuments. You might encounter places like Mount Coot-tha Lookout or Mount Cordeaux Lookout, offering panoramic views. The region also features unique natural formations such as Hell's Gates.

Yes, some touring cycling routes or nearby areas provide access to beautiful waterfalls. For instance, Kondalilla Falls is a notable natural attraction in Queensland that can be incorporated into a cycling trip, offering a refreshing stop amidst lush surroundings.

The touring cycling routes in Queensland are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 1,200 reviews. More than 21,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the region, often praising the diverse landscapes, well-maintained paths, and the variety of experiences available, from urban river loops to scenic coastal rides.

Queensland is home to some excellent rail trails, which are repurposed railway lines perfect for off-road cycling. The Brisbane Valley Rail Trail is Australia's longest, offering a significant long-distance touring option through agricultural land, mountain ranges, and forests. The Kilkivan to Kingaroy Rail Trail is another popular choice for a scenic ride.

In urban centers like Brisbane, many cycling routes are accessible via public transport. For example, routes like the Kedron Brook Cycleway – Anne Beasley’s Lookout loop from Alderley are often reachable by train or bus, allowing you to start your ride without needing a car. Always check local public transport guidelines for carrying bicycles.

Queensland offers numerous opportunities for long-distance touring. Beyond the extensive rail trails, you can find routes like the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge – Newstead Park loop from Milton, which covers nearly 80 km. The diverse landscapes, from coastal stretches to outback trails, provide varied challenges for multi-day adventures.

While many national parks have restrictions on dogs, some local council areas and specific trails may be dog-friendly, especially if they are not within protected wildlife areas. It's always best to check the specific regulations for the trail or park you plan to visit beforehand to ensure dogs are permitted.